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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
92 views41 pagesVirginia Evans Cpe Coursebook-328-368
Uploaded by
Sheila CamposCopyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF or read online on Scribd
pendix 1
i PHRASAL VERBS
Ee
ETI
act on = do whotever is advised/suggested
oct up = behave awkwardly or badly
answer (sb) back = speck rudely to sb
answer back = defend oneself
‘answer for = be responsible for sth/pay for sth/vouch for
answer fo = be under the command of sb/have the
characteristics described
ack down = cease to oppose
back out of = withdraw from
bock up = support
be beneath sb = be demeaning
be down on = be hostile to sb
be down with = be ill (with disease)
be in for it = be about to receive punishment/trouble
ith = be in favour with
informal) take on interest in sth
be off = (1) cease to want or be interested in sth, (2} have
come loose, detached from sth, (3) slay away from
work/school, (4) cancel, {5} be bad, unhealthy (usu food)
be on = be shown on television, at the cinema ate
be out = (1) be in bloom, {2} be extinguished, (3) be removed,
(4) be absent from home or work), (5} be wrong in
calculation, (6) be unfashionable
bolance against = ossess in elation to
bank on = depend on
bear out = support the truth of
1e of = happen fo
blink at = show surprise
blow over = stop and be forgotten
blow up = explode
book up = reserve
break away = escape from coptivily
break down = (1) filo function, (2) lose contol of feelings
break in = (1) interrupt, (2} enter a building by force
break off = end sth suddenly
break out = (1) stort suddenly (of violent events), (2) escape
from a place
break through = (1) moke o discovery, (2) become visible
{3) achieve success despite obstacles or dificulies
break up
(1) end a relationship, (2) disperse
ive up sth
improve (by study)
build up = acquire gradually /accumulate
312
bring about = couse
bring in = introduce (law, idea)
bring off = succeed in (th difficul)
bring on = cause an illness
bring out = publish/release
bring round/to = cause sb to regain consciousness
bring up = (1) stop, (2} mention a subject, (3) vomit, (4) raise
a child
call at = visit briefly
call back = ask to return
call for = require
callin = consult
call off = cancel
call out = cause one to go on strike
call up = conscript
carry off = succeed in doing sth difficult
carry on = (1) continue, (2) behave wildly
carry out = fulfil or perform sth
cerry over = last from another time
cerry through = complete sh in spite of difficulties
catch on = become popular
‘catch up = reach sb who is chead
chip in = add one’s share of money
clear of = find innocent
clear off = run away
clear out = get rid of unwanted things
lear up = (of the weather) brighten up
charge to = bill sb
charge with = publicly accuse sb of commiting a wrong deed
bee done for = be ruined
‘come about = happen
‘come across = find sth or mest sb by chance
come by = obiain sth
ccome down to = be passed to sb
come forward = step forward
become fashionable
herit
progress
(1) become known, (2) be published
come out in = develop
come over = happen; have a result or effect on sb
come round fo = change one’s opinion to another point of
view; be persuaded
come round/to = regain consciousness
come through = continue to live ofter (sth bod)
come fo = amount fo a total
come up = grow come up fo = reach, equal sh
come up with = have an idea cbout a way to solve @ problem
deal in = trade in sth
deal with = tackle a problem; cope with
do away with = abolish
do down = criticise
do out of = deprive of
do up = fasten (a coat etc}
do with = need/would like
do without = manage in spite of lack
imply, suggest
cheat out of = prevent sb from having sth usu in an unfair way
check in = register as o guest at « hotel
chock out = pay one’ bill and leave o hotel
check up on = investigate sb’s behaviour ete
cat back = reduce (outgoings)
cat down on = reduce (consumption)
cat in = interrupt sth
cut off = (1) isolate, (2) disconnect
cut out = omit
draw in = shorten (of days)
draw on = use part of o reserve
drow out = extend
draw up = come fo @ stop (of vehicles)
drop in = visit unexpectedly
drop off = decrease
drop out of = withdraw from
‘at info = consume o part of sth
fall bock = retreot
fall back on = turn to sth/sb for help when all else has failed
{al for = fallin love with sb
fallin = collapse
fall in with = agree to
fall off = decline
fall on = attack
fall out with = quorrel
fall through = fail to take place
fool for = sympathise
fit in = mix well with others
fit up/out = fursish/equip
fy at = attack (with blows or words)
fold up = collapse or fail
head off = prevent
join up = become a member of the military
ish in
get about = (1} move about, (2) spread (of news, gossip etc)
get across = make understood
get chead = succeed
get along/on = be on friendly terms with
get at = mean
get ot sb = criticise, tease in an unkind way
get away with = escape punishment
get by = manage despite dificuties
get sb down = depress sb
get off = send
get off with = neorly escape punishment
get on = make progress
get on with = continue doing sth
get out of = avoid
get over = recover from
‘get round = persuode
get round fo = find time
get through = contact by phone
get up to = be busy with sth surprising or undesirable
give [oneself] up = surrender
give away = (1) reveal, (2) give freely as a present
give in = (1) deliver, yield
ive off = send out/emit
give out = (1) come to an end, (2) announce, (3) distribute
Give up = (1) siop doing sh, (2) admit defect
give up = surrender
hype up = exaggerate the value of sth
wr
lof remarks, proposals etc) be received in a
specified way
go down with = become ill
go for = be sold
90 in for = take part in
go into = describe, examine in detail
g0 off = make a sudden loud noise
[Link] = happen
[Link] with = continue sth esp after a pause
g0 round = be enough for everyone fo have a shore
ge through = (1) examine sth closely or systematically,
(2) consume
go up = be built
{go with = be included inthe price
hold bock = (1) prevent development, (2) delay, (3) withhold
hold in = contol (feelings, oneself)
hold of = (1) keep at a distance, (2} deloy
hold on = wait
hold out = (1) last, (2) resist
hold out for = wait to get sth desired
hold out on = keep a secret from sb
hold over = postpone to a later date
hold up = {1) rob (a bank, vehicle) (2) delay
313 314
bbe kept in = be detained offer normal hours as a punishment
keep at = continue working at
keep back = hide
keep down = repress
keep in with = continue to be friendly
keep on = continue doing sth
keep on at = continue talking in an irritating way
keep to = follow
keep up {with) = progress at the same rate
keep up with = (1) stay at an equal level with, (2) be informed
about
land in = get into trouble, difficulties etc
land up = end (usu in difficulties)
lay aside = put aside
lay into = attack (with blows or words)
lay off = stop doing sth irritating
lay out = spend
lot down = (1) disoppoint, (2} lower sth
let in for = involve in trouble ete
let in on = allow sb to share a plan, secret, etc
let on = reveal a secret
let out = (I] make (a gorment ete} looser or larger (opp: take
in}, (2) utter a cry.
let sb off = not punish severely
let sb through = allow sb to pass an exam or a test
let up = become less in degree
lot up on = treat sb less severely
9b English in Use
be made up = consist
lead on = persuade sb to believe or do sth by making folse
promises
look after = take care of
look ahead = think about the future
look at = read
ook back = think about one’s past
look down on = despise
look for = search for
look in = poy o shor! visit
look into = investigate/examine the facts relating to sth
look on = watch sth without taking port
look onto = have a view
look out = watch out; be careful
look out for = {1) search in order to find sth, (2) be olert in
order to see/tind sb
look over = examine (0 place)
look to = rely on sb
look up = search for {a word) in 0 reference book
look up = visit esp after a long time
look up to = respect
steal sth and hurry owoy with it
make out = (1} complete sth, {2} claim to be, (3) discern,
(4) understand
make over = transfer the ownership of sth
make sth into = convert
make up = {1} invent (o story], (2) end a quarrel,
(3) compensate for sth, (4) put cosmetics on sb's face (5} form
make up for = compensate sb for the trouble one has caused
them
rise up = rebel
rule out = exclude
10b English in Use
call of = cancel
live on sb/sth = get the money needed from
live through = experience overtime
live up to = reach the standard that may be expected
tive with = tolerte/occept sth and endure i
meet with = have as 4 reaction
miss out = forget fo include
move on to = pass to another subject
narrow down = reduce
note down = record
pass over = ignore, overlook
hand over = give
phase out = gradually stop using
piece together = discover gradvally
put about = spread (false) reports, rumours
put across = communicate
put aside/by = save for later use
put away = put into confinement
put back = delay
put down = wre in « particular place
put down fo = attribute to
put forward = suggest, propose
put in (a request) = moke on offcicl request
put in for = (1) apply for, (2) make on official request
put off = discourage
put off = postpone
pot on = (1) gain weight, (2} pretend to hove, (3) advance,
{4) clothe oneself with, (5) present
put out = extinguish
put sb up = give accommodation to
put sth behind one = deliberately forget
put through = (1) carry sh out, 2} cause sb fo undergo (an
ordeal)
put through to sb = connect by telephone
put up with = tolerate T1b English in Use
ind by chance
‘un afer = pursve
tun away = leave (school, home etc)
run away with an idea = accept it without careful thinking
‘even though itis wrong
tun behind = be delayed
run down = (1) criticise, {2} gradually stop functioning, (3) run
sb down (with @ vehicle)
‘unin = use new vehicle carefully
tun into = (1) meet by chance, (2) collide with
tun off = produce quickly
run out of = exhaus! the supply of sth
run through = (1) rehearse (2) use up
run up = accumulate [bills etc)
fun up against = encounter dificulies
s20 about = moke arrangements for
see off = accompany a traveller to his/her train ete
480 out = accompany sb to an exit
$09 over = inspect properly
s20 through = (1) not be deceived, (2) support sb through a
difficult time
s20 fo = take care of
setle down = live o more permanent lifestyle
setle for = accept sh [les than expected)
sotle in = become used to « new house or job
setle on = decide on
setle up = pay (a debt, a bill etc]
ET
Use
set about
sel aside = save for a special purpose
set back = hinder
set sb back = cost sb a lot of money
in = begin (of a period, usu bad)
set off = (1) start a reaction, (2] begin o journey (=set ou!)
set an animal on sb = cause an animal to attack sb
set out = begin a task/job with o specific intention
setup = (1) establish (0 record), (2) start a business (3) erect
snd by = {1} remain loyal to sb, (2} do nothing to stop « bad
sivation, (3) be ready for action
stond down = resiga from a position
ond for = (1) support sth, {2} mean, symbolise, (3) tolerate,
(4) enter oneself for election
Sond in for = replace temporarily
snd out = be conspicuous/obvious
siond up for = defend; support
sind up to = defend oneself against
begin
Aipper
take aback = surprise
take after = look like @ reltive
fake against = disike sb
take away = remove
fake back = withdraw a statement or comment
1} write down, (2) remove sth from « high place
1} deceive, (2) allow sb to stay in one’s home,
(3) understand, (4) make clothes smaller
fake off = {1 remove {clothing}, {2} leave the ground (of
‘ceroplanes ec), (3) imitate sb in @ comic way, (4) begin to
succeed (of plans, ideas etc)
fake on = {1} undertake sth, (2) employ staff, (3) accept sb os
€on opponent
take out = (1) extract, remove, (2) accompany sb to a theatre
etc
take over = take contol of sth esp in place of sb else
take sb for = mistake sb/sth for sb/sth else
take to = (1) find agreeable; like, (2) begin « habit, (3) escape
1} begin « hobby, sport etc, (2} occupy space
fake up with = become involved in (usu derog)
Orr
talk about = (1) gossip about sb, (2} consider
talk at = speck to sb without listening fo ther replies
talk back = reply rudely
talk down to = speak to sb as if they were less clever than
‘oneself
talk ino = persuade sb to do sth
talk out = setle o problem by taking
talk out of = persuade sb not to do sth
talk round = persuade sb to agree to sth
tell against = spoil chances of success
tell apart = distinguish
tell off = scold/reprimand
think of = take sth into account
think out = prepare plans carefully
think over = reflect upon sth before making a decision
think up = invent or devise sth
tum away = refuse admittance fo sb
turn down = (1) reject an offer, {2} reduce heat ete
tum in = go to bed
tum sb in = report o the authoriies
fur into
tum off
turn on = switch on
tum out = (1) assemble as a crowd, (2) produce, (3) prove to be
tum over = fall on one side
tum sth over (in one’s mind) = think carefully about sth
tum to = go to sb for help
tum up = |1) arrive, (2} increase volume
315 Appendix 1
Er
throw about/around = scatter sth
throw away = discord sth as useless
throw sth back at sb = remind sb of sth bad they did in the
past
throw off = escape from, get free of
throw oneself into = begin to do sth energetically and
enthusiastically
throw oneself on sb/sth = rely on sb/sth
throw sb out = force sb to leave
throw sth out = get rid of unwanted items
throw sb together = bring people into contact with each other
throw up = (1] give up (a job ete), (2) vomit
try on = check the fit (of clothes)
try out = test
‘wear away = become thin, damaged, weak, etc by constant
‘wear off = disappear gradually (effect of sth)
‘wear out = use until useles (of clothes etc)
‘work off = [I) overcome the effects of sth [energy, stress,
‘ange, (2) repay by working (a debt)
work on = be occupied wih
work out = (1) find a solution by reasoning, (2) turn out
successfully
work up = (1) develop, (2) excite, (3) advance {in business)
316 Appendix 2
: IDIOMS/FIXED PHRASES
remove suspicion/bad feeling
all along = from the beginning until now
all but = nearly, almost
allin = exhausted
all in oll = when everything is considered
allthe same = yet, however
all old = altogether, in total
be the apple of sb's eye = be very precious to sb; be sb’s
favourite
be up in arms = be very angry
forall = in spite of
forall | care = | don't care
«3 far as | know
while performing the act
inthe air = uncertain
make allowances for = take special circumstances into
consideration
sake amends for = try to compensate for @ past action
of all people = used to express annoyance/surprise
‘on account of = because of
‘on no account = under/in no circumstances
on the air = broadcasting (opp: off the air)
on the alert = watchful and prepared/on the lookout/
‘expecting sth
fake sth info account = consider sth
‘on this/that account = for this/shat reason
het sb’s appetite = make sb eager to have/experience more
up in the air = existing, but not talked about
in the act of
EET
cbove board = honest
bark up the wrong tee = have a false idea about sth
be broke = have no/very litle money
bo fll of beans = be very lively
bein sb’s black books = out of favour
beot abou'/around the bush = avoid saying what one means
directly
behind bors = in prison
bigheaded = conceited; boastful
block and blve all over = covered with bruises
Blessing in disguise = sth which oppears bad at fist bu then
‘uns ou! favourably
blueeyed boy/golden boy = « favoured person
bolt rom the blue = suddenly
brainwave = sudden clear idea/thought
break even = show neither loss nor profit
browned off = fed up; bored
butter sb up = flatter sb
by and large = generally speaking
catch sb redhhanded = be caught while commiting o crime
chip off the old black = sb who is very like one of his parents
cost a bomb = very expensive
deal a blow to = damage one’s hopes
don't hold your breath = don't wait for sb/sth anxiously
drive @ hard bargain = be o tough businessman
drop a brick = say sth tactlessly
feel in one’s bones = feeling sth instinctively
have a bee in one’s bonnet = have an obsession about sth
have butterflies in one’s stomach = be very nervous about sth
in block and white = in writing
in the bolonce = uncertain
kick the bucket = die
lay bare = make public
make a clean breast of = confess
make one's blood boil = cause sb to become very angry
‘on the spur of the moment = without thinking about sth
‘ut ofthe blue = suddenly and unexpectedly
fing a bell = remind sb of sth
120 the back of = be glad to see sb leave
take the bul by the horns = deal with sth boldly end directly
‘wet blanket = dull person who spoils people's happiness
« piece of cake = sth very easy to do
«a redletter day = a very important day
«a wild-goose chase = a hopeless search
bbe caught red-handed = be caught while commiting a crime
bbe on the cards = be likely to happen
be over the moon = be elaied
call sb names = insult sb
chair a meeting = preside over a meeting
crocodile tears = false tears
‘cross one’s mind = think of sth
cut sb dead = ignore sb
diferent as chalk and cheese = totaly different
down in the dumps = depressed/miserable
down the drain = wasted; lost
get a bit hot under the collar = get angry, upset or
embarrassed
get a problem off one's chest = tell sb else about your problem
go to the dogs = worsen
have the cheek = dare to do sth
keep one’s chin up = not be discouraged
let sleeping dogs lie = avoid mentioning o subject which could
couse trouble
lost cause = hopeless situation or case
off colour = look/be slightly unwell
on the dole = receiving unemployment benefi/social securily
play one’s cards right = act cleverly
31? a 2
S“\
show one’s true colours = reveal one’s real character
with fying colours = with greet success
not count one's chickens before they/re hatched = not assume
sth before it happens
‘Ab En
be dying for sth = really want sth
be fit for = be good enough for
be wom out = be very tired
be green = be inexperienced
‘cook one’s goose = end one’s plans abruptly
ish in Use
fair and square = within the rules
fall head over heels = fal in love quickly
feel one’s ears burning = have a feeling that sb is talking
‘about you
galecrasher = sb attending a party, event ele without an
invitation
{get off on the wrong foot = argue or disagree atthe beginning
of a relationship
give and take = compromise
have 0 frog in one's throat = inability to speak due to
nervousness
have the gif ofthe gab = be able to tak wel, persuasively
hear it through/on the grapevine = find out information
inditeclly
in a flosh = very quickly
it's all Greek to me = sth new or foreign; not easily understood
keep 0 shaight face = manage to look serious under dificult
cireumstonces
keep an eye on sth = guard/protect sh
meet behind closed doors = meet secrelly
‘one's fesh and blood = family member
plenty more fish in the sea = many more opportunities in life
for love
put one's foot down = insist on sth
put one's fot in it = moke o tocless comment
take it easy = not work too hard/relax
take sb for granted = not appreciate sb
‘Sb English in Use
«bit of a dark horse
be forthe high jump = about to be reprimanded punished
be in two minds about sth = not be able to decide what to do
be sound asleep = sleep deeply
be the perfect image of sb = look exactly like sb
before one can say Jack Robinson = extremely quickly
break the ice = ease the tension when one first meets people
ot one's heart out = fee! jealous/sad about sth
flog a dead horse = waste time doing sth useless
fy off the handle = quickly become very angry
318
get out of hand
ge! the hang of it = get in the habit of doing sth
0 to one’s head = make conceited
grey matter = brains; intelligence
hand in glove with sb = be in very close contact with sb
have a job to do sth = find sth difficult to do
have many it the fire = have lots of plans/possibilites in
progress at the same time
have one’s heart in one's mouth = be extremely anxious about sh
have time on one's hands = have fre fime
hold one’s horses = wait, be patient
ill af ease = emborrassed; uncomfortable
keep sth under one’s hat = keep sth secret
keep up with the Joneses = compete with others in
status/molerial goods
lend sb a hand = give help to sb
lke the back of one's hand = be very familiar with sth
lose heart = become discouraged
make head nor tail of = understand sth
off the cuff = without preparation
stew in one’s own juice = suffer the consequences of one's
‘own actions
straight from the horse's mouth « from the most direct source
have sb’s hands full = be very busy with sth
sth comes in handy = be very useful/pracical
strike gold = come across sth useful
take sth to heart = take personally /be influenced by
fake to one’s heels = run away
the ins and outs = the details of an activity
the tip of the iceberg = small evident part of a much large,
concealed situation
er
at large = free, not caught
be in the know = be wellinformed
bring to one’s knees = destroy, humble
bury one’s heod in the sand = avoid or ignore realiy/
responsibility
come fo a head = reach a critical point
drop sb a line = send sb a letter
fine kettle of fish = confused state of affairs
get rid of sth = give sth unwanted away
{go to any lengths = do anything necessary to get sth you want
have kittens = be nervous/anxious about sth
keep one’s fingers crossed= hope that sth will turn out well
‘oneself to oneself = live quietly, privately
make a killing = have a sudden, great success/profit
make light of = teat sth os unimportant
make/earn o/one's living = earn money
on the level = honest/sincere
pul one’s leg = tease or tick sb
shed light upon = give new/further information sloop like a log = be sound osleep
the life and soul of sth = the mos lively and amusing person
present somewhere
the lion's share = the biggest part/portion
lum over a new leaf = make « new star
with a view fo doing sth = withthe intention or hope of doing sth
PET
‘a night owl = person who enjoys staying up late
be second to none = be the best
cross one’s mind = occur to one, have o sudden ideo, recall sth
cry over spilt yieve over sth that can't be put right
every nook and cranny = everywhere
feel/be down in the mouth = feel discouraged/depressed
get a move on = hurry up
get on one’s nerves = irritate /annoy sb
have an early night = go to bed eorly
hitthe nail on the head = say exactly the right thing
ina nutshell = briefly; in a few words
lose one’s nerve = lose courage
make name for oneself = become famous/respected for sth
make hay while the sun shines= take advantage of favourable
circumstances
make money hand over fist = make o lot of money quickly and
easily
make one’s getaway = escape
moon around = look miserable
null and void = invalid; not legally binding
‘once in a blue moon = very rarely
put b's name forward = nominate sb
put words into one’s mouth = pretend that sb has said sth that
they haven't actually soid
slip one’s mind = forget about sth
work a miracle = make sth almost impossible hoppen
give the green light fo sth = give permission fo proceed with sth
8b English in Use
«biter pill 1 swallow = a difficult fact to accept
‘ogcins all odds = despite the difficulties
be out of practice = lacking practice
‘come to the point = reach the main point in a discussion
fall into place = become clear
get the sack = be dismissed from one's job
get the wrong end of the stick = misunderstand completely
what has been said
golden opportunity = the best chance to gain sth
grease sb’s palm = bribe sb
{grow out of sth = become too big for sth
have no option but = musi; have no choice
in public = in he presence of other people
in the offing = likely to happen
{
App 2
off the point = irrelevant
‘once and for all = for the last time
‘outandout = complete, otal
‘out in the open = (of secrets} revealed, known.
‘ut of print = (of books) not ovoilable anymore
‘out of the frying pan into the fire = from a sitvation to a
worse/similar one
port and parcel of = bosic port of
past one’s prime = growing old/not at one's best
pop the question = moke a proposal of marriage
short and sweet = brief but pleasant (usu ironic}
status symbol = property/possession that shows sb’s high
social rank wealth etc
toke things fo pieces = dismantle things
throw a party = have/hold a party
White elephant = useless/unwanted possession
SET
‘an unknown quantity = person or thing that one has no
experience of
as a last resort = when all else has failed
at dose quariers = from a shor! distance
be in a quandary = be confused; undecided
beg the question = makes people want to ask a particular
question
call it quits = give up/stop
cut sb fo the quick = deeply hurt sb’s feelings
hit the roof = get very ongry
ina rut = be stuck in @ monotonous routine
in the long run = ater a long period of ime
it stands to reason = its logical
keep sth quiet = keep sth secret
know the ropes = know all the detils of sth
unofficially)
secrely
1ot decided/setled
out of the question = impossible
put down roots = settle down
idhere strictly to the rules as a form of protest
ins = think very hard about sth
along shot = a wild guess/a risk
@ memory like a sieve = a poor memory
be all at sea = be in a state of confusion
be in sb's shoes = be in sb's position
be in the same boat = be in the same (vsu bod) situation
be the spitting image of sb = look exacily like sb
be/get soaked to the skin = be/get very wet
be/have a close shave = barely avoid an accident/a bad
sitvation
319 a 2
NS
behind the scenes = in secret
‘come out of one's shell = gain personal confidence
does it show? = is it obvious?
sive sb the slip = escape from sb
0 for a song = be sold very cheaply
90 without saying = be a foregone conclusion
hit the sack = go to bed
live out of « suitcase = travel offen/not have a permanent
home
make quite « scene = become angry in a dramatic way
(on a shoe string = on a very small budget
pull a few strings = use influential contacts in order to obtain |
‘on advontage
pull one’s socks up = make a greater elfor
sleep on it = think about sth
smell a rat = suspect that sth is wrong
spill he beans = reveal o secret/the facts
stand in sb’s way = prevent sb from doing sth
fake ... with a pinch of salt = not believe sth completely
the last straw = the lost and worst episode in o chain of bad
experiences
thick-skinned = insensitive
T1b English in Use
(by rial and error = learning from one’s mistakes
be ahead of one’s time = have modern ideas.
be (as) thick (as a brick) = be stupid
be tickled pink = be reclly pleased
come to a standstill = not progress/stop
‘come to terms with = accept o difficult situation
for the time being = temporarily
in a tick = shorlly, soon
in the nick of ie = justin time
kal 1e while waiting for sb/sth
lay the repare/set the table for o meal
rot be one’s cup of tea = not suit one's faste
€n second thoughts = having changed one’s mind
cout of turn = not inthe correct order/time
paint the town red = have a great lime
play truant = stay away from schoo! without permission
put two and fwo together = arrive at the truth by looking at
facts:
red tape = unnecessary bureaucracy
take one’s time = not fo hurry
through thick and thin = whatever happens
touch and go = with uncertain result
En
be all very well = appeor satisfactory but in fact not be
be on the up and up = improve steadily
be up and about = have recovered from an illness
320
dive (sb) up the wall = moke sb angry/annoy sb
frosty welcome = unfriendly reception
get out of bed on the wrong side = be in o bod mood
gel wind of = receive information about sth indirectly
sive vent to = express sth freely
i ve in/yield
not seem reasonable or in accordance with
the focts
make a fying visit = make o quick tip
make waves = cause trouble
no/litle wonder = not surprising
‘quick/slow on the uptake = quick/slow to understand
set in one’s ways = fixed in one’s habits/routines
speak volumes = be strong evidence of sb’s feelings, merits ete
under the weather = depressed/unwell
up and coming = likely to be successful
ups and downs = good things alternating with bad ones,
‘wet behind the ears = inexperienced
se belief (usually cbout heath)
= be easily deceived/naive
be bom yesterday
beat sb black and bive = hit sb repeatedly until bruised
{g0 back on one’s word = no! fulfil a promise (opp: keep ones
word)
have a yellow streak = be o coward
not have it both ways = refuse to make a decision between
‘wo pleasant things (usu in expression "You can't have it both
ways!)
in the red = owe money to a bank (opp: in the black)
see red = suddenly become very angry
green belt = the area on the outskirts of a town adjoining the
country
pitch block = very dork
black tie = formal clothing
green with envy = very jealous
green (matter/issve) = concerned with ecology
have words with sb = have an argument
have/keep one’s wits about one = be alert and able to deal
with difficulties
in deep water = in trouble/difficulty
make sb’s day = make sb very happy
s0¢/look at sth through rose-coloured spectacles = see sth
from an uncealistically positive point of view
the black sheep of the family = 0 disgraced family member
the pot calling the ketle black = accusing sb of a fault one has
oneself
the year dot = a long time ago
until one is blue in the face = as hard/long os one possibly
‘can (usu without success}
red herring = sth which distracts you from sth important 14b English
(fight) like cat and dog = (disagree) violently
{lke) a bull in i china shop = behave in a clumsy/awkward
woy
rake a dog's dinner (of sth) = (make} o mess (of sth)
a bear with a sore heod « irtated/in a bad mood
«diferent ketle of fish = o totally different situation etc from
the one just mentioned
0 dog's life = difficult, hard life
«fish out of water = sb who feels uncomfortable/in uafomilior
surroundings
red rag fo « bull = action, comment ec liable to provoke sb
a sifing duck = an easy target
as busy as a bee/a busy bee = (sb) very busy
as the crow fies = in o direct line/by a direc! rovle
be in the doghouse = be ou! of favour, in trouble
Q
dog eat dog = ruthless competition, rivalry
dogeeared = (of books) with the corners bent and tuined down
through use
donkey work = boring, monotonous work
donkey's years = 0 long time
Kil two birds with one stone = achieve two things with one
ction
let the cat out of the bag = reveal a secret
like water off « duck’s back = having no effect
rake a fool of oneself = make oneself lock stupid/
embarrassed/ridiculous
rake a mountain out of a molehill = cause « fuss about a
trivial matter
no room fo swing a cat = no room at all
play cat and mouse with sb = keep sb in a slate of uncertain
expectation treating them alternatively cruelly and kindly
put the cat among the pigeons = cause trouble/controversy
rain cats and dogs = rain heavily
swim like a fish = swim very well
tak the hind legs off a donkey = talk for o long time,
uninterrupted
the rat race = the competitive nature of modern urban life
unl the cows come home = for long time
mutton dressed as lamb = dress in o style younger
than/inappropriate to your age
sour grapes = say unpleasant comments because of jealousy
sweet tooth = enjoy eating sweet things
get nowhere fast = make no/litle progress
pay sb’s way = contribute your share of a bill/budget
hitecollar job = office/clerical work
fy on the wall = ses/hear sth in a situation which does not
involve you
Achilles heel = weckest point of sb’s character
wash sb’s hands of sb = refuse to be involved with sb
oe
s\
15 English in Use
« pain in the neck = annoying person/thing
be all fingers and thumbs = be awkward, clumsy
get cold feet = lose courage to do sth
give sb the cold shoulder = ignore/shun sb
have a cheek/nerve = oc!/speak boldly or impudently
have o sharp tongue = tend to say unkind or hurtful things
have an eye for = be a good judge of sth
look down one’s nose at sth/sb = feel/act superior fo sb
lose one’s head = lose seltcontrol
put one’s heart and soul info sth = be devoted fo sth
fongue in cheek = not serious, ironic
tooth and nail = fiercely
turn o blind eye to sth = ignore
not lose any sleep over sth = not worry about sth
jack ofall rades = sb who is able to do 0 variety of jobs
4 storm in a teacup = 6 lot of fuss about sth that is not
important
bring sth home fo sb = make sb understand how impostont/
serious sh is
bite off more than sb can chew = try to do sth which is loo
difficult
in dover = living o luxurious/comfortable life
face the music = be crtcised/punished for sth you have done
321 Aenean
322
pendix 3.
WORDS OFTEN CONFUSED
doing sth one is supposed to do or to
‘void answering @ question, often by deception
shirk = to avoid work because of laziness
duck = 10 avoid an object by a quick downwards
movement
dodge = to ovoid on object by @ quick sideways
movement
sway = 10 influence others! opinions so they turn from a
given course
Don't try to sway me. I'm determined to take the job.
influence = to cause sb to think/act in @ particular way
impress = to produce a lasting, positive effect
affect = to produce a reaction usu negative
The nuclear leak has affected all the farmers’ crops.
real = true as opposed to false
genuine = (objec!) what it seems to be, (person) sincere
and honest
natural = not man-made
cuthentc = with known and proved origins
valid = sth which con be used and will be accepted by
people in authority (a valid document, ticket)
wealthy = having © lot of material possessions and
money
cffvent = weolthy and able to spend « lot of money
welloff = (informal) fairly wealthy
ich = (of food) full of ingredients which may be difficult
to digest
extravagant = (objec!) sth that costs more money than
you can afford or sth which is beyond what is reasonable
{on extravagant lifestyle, gif)
lavish = [objec sththat is very elaborate and impressive
and a lot of money hos been spent on it (lavish part,
costumes)
merchandise = [formal] things for sole
ware = manufactured goods of porticulor type
(silverware)
‘commodity = sth which is sold for profit, on ortile of
trade
stock = the total amount of goods a shop has available
to sell
‘cure = (tr) fo successfully treat, to restore to health
remedy = (tr) to put right, usu of situations
heal = (r/int] to cure; fo get beter, improve
treat = [r} to give medical attention to
imitate = fo behave in exccly the some way os sb else
copy = to produce sth that looks like the original thing
‘emulate = {formal} o imitate sb because you admire them
fake = 1o moke sth seem genuine alhough actually false
© practise
‘© slim = (complimentary) not fat (NB slim chance: slight
possibilty)
lean = (complimentary) healthily thin, without fot (also o
mea!)
skinny = (uncomplimentary] very thin
slender = (complimentary] aactively thin, esp of women
+ moulder = to decay slowly
rot « [intr/t) to (cause to} decay because of bacteria et,
esp of vegetation
intr/r} to grow weak and small; to use badly
decompose = {intr/i] to (cause to} go bad, esp of fash
‘© snail = to make an angry noise while showing the teeth
esp of dogs ete
howl = to cry, esp of dogs; o ery with pain
bleat = to cry, esp of sheep, goats etc
‘wiler = to make a sound like a bird
reference = (in the expression in/with reference to) =
used to indicote what sth relates to/in connection with
affinity = relationship, similarity or connection
relation = (object) connection; (person) a member of
one’s family
connection = relationship between two things, people or
groups
+ sliver = o small thin piece or amount of sth
chip = a small piece of sth
crumb = small part of « larger object, esp bread, cake
ete
cube = square-shaped piece of sth (wood, sugor, meat
* chop = fo cut sth into pieces with strong downward
movements of a knife or an axe
shred = to cut into thin strips
mince = to cut with a machine into small pieces (mea!)
grate = to shred small pieces off sth (cheese, carrots) by
rubbing against « rough surface
* fade = to become less clear (with time)
vanish = to disappear suddenly
disappear = to be lost, to no longer be seen
pale = to become lighter in colour
oss = to throw into the air, esp of coins, pancakes ele
throw = to launch through the air, esp using the hand ond
orm
‘cast = to throw, let fall (stones, shadow)
to throw sth using « lot of force
to do cn action repeatedly or do exercises
regularly in order to gain skill (a musical instrument)
learn = to obtain knowledge or « skill through studying
(training
teach = to give knowledge of o particular subject to
someone
‘Mrs Jones teaches French at a secondary school. coach = 10 tain/teach esp for o specific purpose,
examination oF sport
Instruct = to give knowledge or information to sb in &
methodical manner
present (information) = to give it to people in o formal
rise (yourself with sth) = to learn about sth and
stort to understand it
show (sb how to do sth) = to do sth yourself so that they
‘can watch you and learn how to do it
‘entrust = put sth/sb in the care of sb else
confide = to tell sb sth in secret
consign = lo hand over/give up or send sth esp in trade
resign = to give up a job
punch = to hit wth a clenched fist
‘slop = to hit with the palm of one's hand
smack = to hit with the palm of one’s hand, esp a child
‘9s a punishment
whack = fo hit with a blow making a loud noise
strike = to hit; used esp for emphasis ond added emotion
smash = to break sth into many pieces by hiting of
dropping it
enhance = to make sth better; to add to the beauty of sth
The sunshine enhanced the golden colour of her hair
‘aggravate = to make sth worse
heighten = to become greoter, more acute esp emotions
Tension between the police and local residents
heightened lastnight.
intensify = to become stronger, more intense
profit = to gain, esp money
gain = to obtain
‘earn (money, praise) = receive sth in return for work thot
you do; get sth because you deserve it
expt bh) oat sb nity; we shined fo goin
‘an advantage from it
temnence = forma] o bogin
The Prime Minister will commence his tour on 1) April.
instigate = to start by urging or inciting
launch = to couse sth fo begin, esp an activity, compaign
ete
provoke (a reaction) = to cause a reaction
hinder = to delay or prevent the progress of sth
‘She was hindered from her work by John's incessant
‘questioning,
block = to be in the way of sth/sb; to obstruct
The road was blocked by an overturned lorry and we
couldn't poss
bar = to obstruct esp intentionally
impede = to make sth difficult to do
obstruct = to be in the way of sb/sth
intervene (of events) = fo happen suddenly in a way that
stops, delays, or prevents sth from happening
‘exude (a quality or feeling) = to show that sb has it to a
great extent
~~
SA
‘exclude = to keep sb out from somewhere; to leave sb out
from among the rest; decide/prove that sth is not worth
considering
Seis eee er reeertent feseeresr oreo
problems or bad feelings
His divorce was an experience he had tried to expunge
from his memory.
extricate = to free yourself or another person from a
dificult, serious situation
This is the last attempt by the country to extricate iselt
‘rom its economic crisis,
ort
goods = things for sole
‘wares = (old-foshioned} things for sale usu of o travelling
salesman
commodities = products exchanged in rade usu on an
international basis,
supplies = food equipment ond other essential things thot
people need, especially when these are provided in
large quantities
fear = to look after one’s young until full-grown
bring up = fo look afer ond educate until fllygrown
breed = to keep animals for the purpose of producing
young
grow = to become or cause fo become bigger
nurture (a young child, or young plan) = care for it while
itis growing and developing
pinch = (informal) steal an object
eal small amounts usu from your place of work
{informal) steal from a person
steal sh very quickly while sb is not looking
‘acquire = formal) 1 obtain for oneself; a skil, habit et)
develop /learn
‘He acquired a profound knowledge of the language by
careful study.
abet = ote awcy fo pate) anlowly, fen by
gather (information, evidence) = to collect it especially
over a period of time and ofter lot of hard work
collect = gather; get « large number of things because
they interest you
derive = to get sth such os pleasure or benefit from a
person or from an actvily/sitvation
deduce = to reach a conclusion because of other things
that you know fo be true
inhabit = to live in o place or region
inhabitant = person who lives (permanently) in a region
or town
dwell = (formal to live in @ place
He is concerned forthe fate of he tribes who dwell inthe
forest
wz
323 324
CET!
Appendix 3
dweller = person or animal that lives in an environment
settle = to stort living in a place permanently
sotler = person who has come to live in a (previously
uninhabited or developing] county or area
reside = to have one’s home at in a ploce
Ruth resides with her mother in o London suburb.
resident = person who lives in o house, block of flats,
«rea oF country
wz
‘+ take legal aid = to take money given by the government
or another organisation to people who cannot afford to
poy for a lawyer
take lagal action = an expression used to indicate that
person or company is willing to start, or has started,
general legal proceedings over a matter; often used as a
form of threat
‘try = (usu passive] to examine in @ court of law
bring fo trial = to fake a criminal case fo a court of law
to be exomined
take sb to court = used in a similar way to “toke legal
‘action” but aso more specific and direct legal threat
charge with = to accuse of @ criminal act, esp by the
police
summon = to order offcilly sb to appear in court
+ restrain = slop sb from doing wha! they intended or
wanted to do; prevent yourself om showing en emotion
curb = control/keep sth within limits
Inflation needs to be curbed otherwise we are in for an
check = to moke sure that sth is corrector salisfactory
inhibit = to prevent or slow down;
Thirst inhibited the desire to eat
to render sb unable to express what they really feel or do
what they really want
The newcomers were too inhibited to laugh Keely.
© continually = repeatedly, regularly, frequently
continuously = without stopping
She hos worked with us continuously since 1990.
perpetually = lasting for a long indefinite time usu without
interruption; continually
eternally = endlessly; often used metaphorically for
emphasis (eternally grateful)
‘+ constant = repeoted many times usu in @ regular manner
incessant = extending without interruption for an
indefinite period of time; often used negatively fo express
itation
steady = continuing in @ regular manner
Thave a steady job and am financially secure
ing = sth which began in the past and seems
unlikely to stop in the near future (Ongoing problems)
* citical = of decisive importance
This operation is eritcal; without it the patient might di
crucial = very importont usv in determining sh or
resolving @ problem
‘essential = extremely important; necessary
vital = extremely necessary
significant = of importance and meaning
{grave = important, pressing ond usu worrying
received some grave news about my brother's health
cand had to fy back home immediately.
fundamental = absolutely necessary; important essential
* forbid = to order sb not fo do sth, not allow sth to be
done
The constintion forbids the military use of nuclear
energy.
prohibit «10 forbid by law o rule
‘Smoking inthis area is prokibited.
disallow = not allow or accept sth officially, becouse i
hos not been done correcily
Our team scored again, bul the whisle had gone and the
{goal wos disallowed.
censor = to examine officially leters or the medio wih
the intention of removing ony information regarded a:
secret or offensive
© famous = very well known
conspicuous = easily seen; noticeable; attracting
attention
remarkable = worth specking of; unusual
distinguished = marked by excellent quality or deserved
fome
eminent = wellknown and respected, especially for
beeing good at one's profession
clevated = very important or of very high rank
The success of his latest novel has given him a certain
elevated status
prestigious = respected and admired by people
noleworhy = interesting; remarkable; worthy of attention
ruin = to damage sth so that itis useless
impair = to make sth weaker or imperfect
loud music impairs your hearing.
injure = to cause harm to a person/animal (broken limbs,
wounds)
damage = to desiroy something in part, causing loss of
valve
‘My carpet was damaged in o Hood.
harm = io have a generally bad effect on sth, not
necessarily a physical effect (harm a friendship)
* scan = fo look at sth quickly, usu from top to bottom
looking for particular information
peer at = fo look at sth closely or with difficulty, due to
poor eyesight or in darkness scrutinise = to look closely and carefully at sth
inspect = to examine sth thoroughly
glimpse = to have a passing view of sb or sth
+ harass = (formal} to continually and unfaitly annoy and
cause trouble to sb
pester = to annoy sb with repeated requests for sth
get on at = (informal) to continually nag or tell sb to do.
sth
tease = (usu of children) to laugh at or make fun of in an
unkind way
He was teased ot schoo! for being fat
* chip = (ht) 10 break o small wedge-shaped piece off the
edge of an object
smash = {r/int) 1 breok violently ond often deliberately
into pieces
He smashed his jowbone in a crash
snop = (tin) to break suddenly esp with o sharp
cracking noise
She snapped the biscuit in half ond we shared it
shatter = {tr/int) to break (usu glass or china) into
hundreds or thousands of pieces
break off = to come off or remove by force
rack = to (cause to) break without dividing into separate
porls
Don't pour hot water into the glass or it will erack.
Ei
nn
scatter = (tr/int) to throw many things in @ random
‘manner; (with groups of people) hurriedly and randomly
disperse in all directions
The farmer scattered the seeds over the Feld
Suddenly the crowd scattered,
disperse = (tr/intr) to break up (a group of people or
thing) ond move its component parts away in various
directions (used esp with the police)
Many arrests were made as the police attempted to
disperse the rioters.
strew = {tr 10 drop things over a surface, esp in on untidy
or careless manner
sprinkle = {ro drop sth in fine quantities
She sprinkled sugar over the coke
* stagger = walk very unsteady, for example because you
cre ill
reel = to move about in an unsteady way as if one is
going to fall
totter = to move in an unsteady way from side to side as
if about to fall
stumble = put your foot down awkwardly while you are
wolking or running and nearly fll over
* slide = to move smoothly but unintentionally over o.
surface
glide = 1o move smoothly ond easily over « surface
Appel 3,
tlip = to slide suddenly without intention
| slipped on the wet pavement and fell over
skid = usu with vehicles on roads to mean to slide
suddenly and uncontrollably while trying to stop
huddle = to lie close to sb/sth in a confined space, usu
for protection from adverse conditions
The children huddled together in the comer of the room
to keep warm.
nestle = to settle comfortably in a secure place
snuggle = {esp up) to lie in comfort close to sb/sth
The baby snuggled up to its mother under the blankets
cuddle = to hold firmly and lovingly in one’s arms
fend = fo take great care of sb/sih fa garden, a wound)
cttend {fo} = tobe with ond take care of sb/sth, usu in o
professional capacity
The patien! was attended by several speciolisis
grow (a plani) = to put seeds or young plants in the
